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Mount Semeru rescuers warned of further eruptions
At least six eruptions were recorded on Monday, according to the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation Center’s (PVMBG) observations.
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Mount Semeru is seen at the Sumberwuluh village in Lumajang, East Java, on December 7, 2021. (AFP/Adek Berry)
M
ount Semeru continued spewing ash and other volcanic materials on Monday as authorities said areas near the volcano should remain clear of any activities due to concerns that more eruptions could occur in the near-term.
The tallest mountain in Java erupted on Saturday, spewing a large cloud of ash and rocks into the sky, blanketing the surrounding area in ash and mud and displacing thousands of people from their homes.
At least six eruptions were recorded on Monday, according to the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation Center’s (PVMBG) observations.
PVMBG head Andiani said in a press conference on Monday that it was possible that the recent uptick in Semeru’s volcanic activities, particularly in pyroclastic flows, could continue for the foreseeable future.
“There is potential for [future] pyroclastic flows [from Mt. Semeru],” said Andiani, adding that the PVMBG would continue to monitor the latest situation at the volcano and immediately issue public warnings when necessary.
In addition, Andiani said that high rainfall in the area, which was expected to last for one or two months, could increase the risk of lahar surging from Semeru’s slopes given the high volume of volcanic materials near the peak of the mountain. Lahar is a type of mudflow typically composed of a slurry of pyroclastic materials, rocky debris and water flowing down from a volcano, usually along a river valley.
In anticipation of future pyroclastic flows and mudflows, the public has been advised to remain 1 kilometer away from Semeru’s crater in general and 5 km away from south-southwest of the crater.
